From Fear to Fascination: The Science and Conservation of Sharks
Sharks are vital to healthy ocean ecosystems, yet they face increasing challenges from human activities. The Atlantic is no exception, with fishing pressures, habitat loss, and climate change threatening their survival. Join Maggie Winchester-Weiler, Florida Conservation Program Manager for Ocean Conservancy, for an engaging dive into the biology of sharks, the physiological impacts of catch-and-release fishing, and the critical conservation efforts needed to protect these apex predators. Together, we’ll explore what divers and ocean lovers can do to ensure a thriving future for sharks in our waters.
Maggie Winchester-Weiler is a scientist and educator specializing in conservation and physiology of marine wildlife, and manages the youth empowerment and plastic reduction program, Plastic Free Cities, across Florida for Ocean Conservancy. Based in Miami, Maggie coordinates stakeholders, governments and youth to advocate policies that maintain or improve the health of the ocean and locally, Biscayne Bay. Leveraging her scientific background, she informs research and public awareness campaigns to improve water quality and reduce marine debris statewide. Maggie received her Master of Science from UMass Dartmouth, where her research focused on the physiological responses of sharks to catch-and-release fishing, and she is an Adjunct Faculty member at Shoals Marine Laboratory, where she teaches Shark Conservation and Biology.
